FCS
Family Studies
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
The child and family development major offers an online option 
and will prepare individuals for
careers in child development centers, Head Start, Michigan School Readiness and other preschool programs, as well as meeting the qualifications to be program director in a child care center or as parent educators.
The Child and Family Development major prepares individuals to work with infants, toddlers, preschoolers, school-age children, and their families in a variety of settings. Students explore relationships among children, families and their environment and culture with the goal of improving quality of life within communities and society at large. This program meets State of Michigan requirements for childcare center directors. It is not meant to provide Michigan Teacher Certification.
The Child and Family Development major includes knowledge about:
- human growth and development
- parent education
- family dynamics
- societal factors that influence family life
- human sexuality
- interpersonal relationships
- family resource management; family law and public policy
- ethics, and
- family life education methodology.
Graduates of this program who earn a grade of “C” or higher in all of the required FCS courses for this major will be granted provisional status as a Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) by the National Council on Family Relations.
Graduates with this major hold positions such as:
- parent educators
- child life specialists, and
- early childhood educators in school readiness programs, child development centers, youth and community programs, and alternative education settings.
Child and Family Development Major (FCDJ) Curriculum Guide
Online Program - Family Studies Program: Child Development Major or Family Studies Major
Transfer students contact: Linda Dove (269) 387-3716 for advising.
Questions? Contact the College of Education Office of Admissions and Advising.